A home user's machine can be prone to attack when on-line. There are certain simple steps that can be taken to minimise this risk.

When on-line certain programs need to act as a server to function correctly. Some examples of these are ICQ and other real-time chat systems. When using these programs you could be vulnerable to attack as your computer has to "open up" more of its resources to the Internet. Always make sure you are running the latest version of your software.

With conventional dial-up modems you are connected to the Internet at relatively short intervals. This keeps the chance of attack relatively low. However, with new broadband and cable services user's systems will become increasingly in an "always-on" state with a constant connection to the Internet. This leaves a continuous footprint to your presence. This is especially the case for company networks.

The best solution for a company with a large network or for a home user is a "firewall", a device that prevents outsiders from accessing your computer or network. It is usually a stand-alone computer or boxed device that acts as a single access point between your system and the Internet and vice versa. It hides your system from other users on the Internet, as well as controlling connection requests from outside systems.

There are also software versions of firewalls for home users which are available at a relatively low cost and are well worth investing in. You can find out more by looking at computer magazines which often feature firewall software on their cover CDs from time to time.